Study participants who reported the highest stress levels were 33% more likely to have a stroke than those who felt less anxious or stressed. The greater the anxiety level, the higher the stroke risk, but even modest increases raised stroke risk.
If you've wondered specifically if stress can cause a stroke, too, the answer is unfortunately, yes. “There has been mounting evidence exploring stress as a risk factor for stroke — especially stress related to your job,” says neurologist Irene Katzan, MD.
According to research that appeared in Stroke, an American Heart Association journal, middle-aged and older individuals with high levels of stress, depression, and hostility were subject to a significantly higher risk of stroke or TIA (Transient Ischemic Attack, commonly known as “mini-stroke”).
Chronic stress directly impacts the cardiovascular system, which damages the arteries when left unmanaged. Vascular damage can eventually lead to a stroke, which is a medical emergency caused by a clogged or burst artery in the brain.
Chronic stress can indirectly cause a stroke or TIA (transient ischemic attack or mini stroke). For instance, chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure, which is a known risk factor for stroke and heart disease. Stress can also cause inflammation in the arteries all over the body.
According to the study authors, anger or emotional upset was linked to an approximately 30% higher risk of having a stroke within one hour of experiencing those emotions. Another potential stroke trigger revealed by the study was heavy physical exertion, although the evidence was less convincing.
“Under the age of 50, most stroke mimics are migraines, epilepsy, seizures, multiple sclerosis or high blood pressure that causes swelling in the brain,” he said. “Over the age of 50, most patients experiencing a stroke mimic are the result of epilepsy, metabolic derangement or a mass lesion in the brain.”
Serious mental illnesses tied to higher risk for heart attack and stroke.
It can be caused by a narrowed blood vessel, bleeding, or a clot that blocks blood flow.
Some people will experience symptoms such as headache, numbness or tingling several days before they have a serious stroke. One study found that 43% of stroke patients experienced mini-stroke symptoms up to a week before they had a major stroke.
Call 9-1-1 immediately if any of these signs of stroke appear: Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg; Confusion or trouble speaking or understanding speech; Trouble seeing in one or both eyes; Trouble walking, dizziness, or problems with balance; severe headache with no known cause.
Some of the most common stroke mimics are seizures, migraine, fainting, serious infections and functional neurological disorder (FND). Once the person is diagnosed, they can have treatment or support to manage their symptoms.
These health issues are categorized as 'high risk factors' for a stroke. It has been found in a study that stress apparently raises the risk of a Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) by 59%. A TIA is a mini-stroke caused by a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain.
High blood pressure is the number one modifiable risk factor for stroke, often referred to as the silent killer!
High blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke and is the main cause for increased risk of stroke among people with diabetes.
Pre-strokes or mini strokes are the common terms used to describe a transient ischemic attack (TIA). Unlike a full blown stroke, a TIA only lasts a few minutes and does not cause permanent damage. Nevertheless it is a warning sign that a possible stroke may be coming in the future.
There are two main causes of stroke: a blocked artery (ischemic stroke) or leaking or bursting of a blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke).
A multinational study has found that people with depression symptoms are more likely to experience a stroke, and their recovery from stroke is often more difficult. In this study, people with symptoms of depression had a 46% increased stroke risk compared with those without such symptoms.
Difficulty controlling your emotions (emotionalism) A stroke can affect your ability to control your mood and emotions. This is called emotionalism, sometimes known as 'emotional lability'. It can mean that your mood changes very quickly and you are more emotional than you used to be.
“But anyone, even people who are relatively young and healthy, could potentially have a stroke.” While you can't do much about risk factors related to your age, gender or family history, there are four important things you can do to lower your risk of stroke — and improve your overall health: Stop smoking.
Stroke symptoms often happen quickly, and brain damage can begin within minutes. Quick treatment can help limit brain damage and increase the chance of a full recovery. For some people, stroke symptoms come on gradually. For example, you may have mild weakness at first.
Both CT or MRI scans can identify the stroke type, but CT scans cannot always find the location of a blood clot. However, they can rule out a hemorrhagic stroke and other potential causes for the person's symptoms.